Quick backstory: Couple months ago, a neighbor and good friend passed suddenly of a heart attack. Less than 2 years ago, he had his first grandchild, a boy, who he loved dearly and was extremely proud of. If I was outside playing with my dog, he’d routinely bring his grandson over to watch. As the grandson became more cognizant of his surroundings in recent months, I’d let him pet my little girl and he’d instantly smile. Fast forward to last evening. I was again playing ball with my girl in the yard. Across the street the widowed wife was walking with the grandson. She brought him over and my dog instantly greeted him, licking his hand. He giggled. The wife then leaned over to rub my dog’s head. When she stood back up, she was smiling. The first time I personally had seen her smile since that fateful day. I tell ya, my heart melted away. She then grabbed her grandson’s hand and turned to walk away but looked back and while still smiling softly said, “Thank you”. Despite the lump in my throat I somehow got out, “You’re welcome. Have a nice evening”. Dogs, man.